Elle’s POV
I hesitated for only a second before placing my hands in his. His grip was firm but gentle, and he lifted me down easily, like I weighed nothing. When my feet touched the ground, I felt a little unsteady—not just from the ride, but from the fact that he didn’t let go of my hand right away.
He held it a moment longer than necessary. Just enough to make me notice.
Then he gave me a small nod and turned toward the house, still holding my hand. I followed him up the short steps to the porch, my heart thudding again, louder now than even the hooves had been.
He knocked.
After a few seconds, the door opened—and there she was.
His mother.
She was just as stunning as the last time I had seen her, her long silver hair braided down her back, glowing under the lantern light. Her eye
